You all have a great day as we reflect on what our Lord did for us.....THANK YOU LORD

Love and prayers!
-REV.April 22, 2011 - Msg 83621:Thought I would sweep some of this pollen off the porch before I go:)
-REV.April 22, 2011 - Msg 83622:
Happy Good Friday Porch friends, hope all is well today. I am working a while this morning. I had a person who needed to be seen and I needed to finish up some work I left from yesterday. Should be outta here by about 11:30 or so.

A cool cloudy rainy morning on my end of the porch. thanks for sweeping up the pollen REv. My front porch and our vehicles are yellow. I walked my little dog last night and I felt like I was covered in pollen when I got home. Folks were mowing and blowing off their driveways and walks and stirring up yellow clouds all over the neighborhood.

Hey, Rev, is your tour schedule for the summer or fall posted anywhere? I was wondering if you were coming anywhere close to my end of the porch so I could come hear/meet you.

lunch menu for today will be: OLive Garden, my treat today. lets meet about noon. I will save a big table for us.

Hope all is going ok with everyone. Wife and I are gearing up to go fishing tomorrow. Just got back from Bass Pro and WalMart with what we need. I forgot to tell you that the Old Confederate Home State Park and Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri, is a real park with big fishing ponds! The ponds were there years ago and the old Conf. soldiers, incluidng some of Quantrill's men, use to fish in these same ponds! The old buildings are gone except for one building that was the old hospital, the chapel and one cottage. Didnt go all out on gear. Just kind of a "warm up" trip to see what kind of bait works and what doesnt. Really going for the relaxation and atmosphere!

Well, better git. Will try to be back later on! Have a wonderful Good Friday!

John MastersApril 22, 2011 - Msg 83624:
If I dont get back to ya'this weekend, have a safe and very Happy Easter! Will see you on the flip side!

Any fans of "The Waltons" might want to check out the Hallmark Channel today- day long marathon!

Love to all!
*******************
possum under a rockApril 23, 2011 - Msg 83627:
Good sweep Tev...hey to all...headed to work at 2 for the night....Church in the morning gona be tired but thats fine....hey where yall wana eat for lunch?..hey Boo,Ro,Possum,MDC,JM and all....SPOTApril 23, 2011 - Msg 83628:
"Tev"?... Rev...gosh fat paws...meApril 23, 2011 - Msg 83629:
And TV Land is running a commercial marathon today with a few clips of TAGS in the mix every now and again. :)

AsaApril 23, 2011 - Msg 83630:
Howdy, porch. Just sitting here looking out at my yard. Pond pump needs cleaning, irises need to have all the dead bloom stalks trimmed off, and weeds have launched an assault. There's always something. However, Eddie and his helper just left, so all is mowed and looks fresh and clean. Birds are everywhere, and an enterprising little squirrel is nosing around and digging here and there, no doubt trying to remember where he planted a pecan, which has no doubt already sprouted into a young tree. No pulling that rascal out, will have to dig it out or paint the leaves with Round-up to kill it. That's about the only time I use Round-up, except occasionally on the miserable nutgrass that appears with disgusting regularity. Gosh - I sound gloomy. Can you tell I don't feel too great? My back is locked up right, and moving around is difficult, which is especially annoying as I have so much that needs to be done. However, when I think of Eloise up there in the hospital, with a ten pound brace on her leg and looking at the next two to three months in a wheelchair, my back doesn't seem like such a problem. She's hanging in there, but is trying hard not to get depressed.

We're going to take Easter dinner up there tomorrow and take her in her wheelchair down to the cafeteria so we can sit at a table to eat. I'm taking an ambrosia-style fruit salad. I'm also going to color some eggs, and will take a basket of them, and some flowers out of the yard for the table. I hope it will cheer her up a bit.

Well, gotta run. Much to do, maybe the activity will warm my back up and release the knots in it. Blessings, all. --Romeena

April 23, 2011 - Msg 83631:
Good grief. Make that "my back is locked up TIGHT," not right. I wish it was "right." --RomeenaApril 23, 2011 - Msg 83632:
Aww, I wish your back WAS locked up right,Ro. Hope you get to feeling better soon!
I hear ya,Asa, in regards to the commercial marathon on Tv Land- it's always like that!
Hey to Spot!
Again..Happy Easter,y'all!
*******************
possum under a rockApril 23, 2011 - Msg 83633:
Hey Possum. When you gonna finish your Mayberry story?
Sorry your back is ailing Ro. I know how frustrating that can be.

Maude......you were asking about my summer tour...I will be in Pigeon Forge for a concert on May 29th. I think it starts at 8:00pm. If you think you can make it I'll let you know for sure the time but in the past it's been 8:00pm. Pigeon Forge is as close as I'll be to you this year. Would love to meet ya! I'll be debuting my new cd that night for the new tour.

I pray you all have a wonderful Easter!
Love and prayers for you all....my porch family!
-REV.April 24, 2011 - Msg 83635:
Good evening, all. I'm about to head for the ironing board - kinda tired. Back has loosened up some, as it usually does when I just grit my teeth and keep moving. By the time I had bent and stooped and tugged a garden hose around and got the pond all fixed up, it was feeling better, so I stayed out there and did a bit of weeding. Then came in the house and boiled and dyed three dozen eggs. They're so pretty - I just love Easter eggs. I made up the little basket I mentioned, and will take about half of them to the hospital tomorrow to share with Eloise and the rest of the family.

My church provided small white crosses for those who wanted them, to put in our front yards. They're about two feet high, and just plain white on one side. The other side, which was meant to be turned away from the street until Easter morning, has "He Is Risen!" printed on it. I just went out and turned mine around, so in the morning that side will be seen from the street. I think it's a nice idea. I may just keep that little cross out there, with the printing hidden, all the time. There is a movement getting started for Christians to display a small white cross on their property all the time. Nothing big and blatant, very tasteful and understated, but there, and visible. It's private property, the ACLU cannot stop it, and it conveys a message. If our Jewish friends would like to display a Star of David in the same manner, I think that would be great. I think we had better start exercising what's left of our religious freedom, while we still can. No moulage intended or expected, as I think probably everyone on this porch would agree in this case. If not, that is your right, and no offense is intended.

*******************
possum under a rockApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83637:
P.S. I don't know,Asa-let me think on it.Or perhaps someone else can pick up from where we left off??

possum againApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83638:
And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here, for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. Matt: 28.

Christ the Lord is risen today. Alleluia!

Blessings, friends! --RomeenaApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83639:
HAPPY EASTER ....just got back a while ago from sunrise service ,what a beautiful morning
MAYBERRY DEPUTYApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83640:
Ro, I boiled up eggs for the kids on Friday...only 18 of them but only one of them cracked, which is some kind of record for me. It was so sweet. I had four kids gathered around the kitchen table dying eggs while my childhood friend and I visited. It's been a good weekend. Now for the big egg hunt and cook-out over here after church.

Really neat about the white crosses, by the way.

Better get ready for preachin'. Are you wearing your dangly earrings, Ro? I figure since it's Easter, we can get away with it.

Happy Resurrection Day!

BooApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83641:
Yep, Boo, I wore my dangly earrings. Still have them on, as a matter of fact. I came home and finished up the ambrosia fruit salad (didn't have any marshmallows, had to stop and get some) and I want to cut some flowers for the table. Actually, I've got time to rest a little while, as I don't have to be at the hospital to meet the family until a little after 1 p.m. Dave and Brittney have to come from Saginaw after church, so it will be at least 1 p.m. before they can make it.

Oops! David just called and said they want to come here after we have dinner with Eloise, to let the kids hunt eggs and let Brittney get some pictures in the yard. Guess I'd better get busy and tidy up around here a little - it looks like a tornado blew through.

TOM:(April 24, 2011 - Msg 83644:Happy Easter to my porch family. Have a great day!
-REV.April 24, 2011 - Msg 83645:
Well, it's now 7pm and whew! Everyone went home and the kitchen is cleaned. Time to collapse! We had us a houseful for sure. Bruce cooked burgers on the grill and we had chili-cheese hotdogs, potato salad, baked beans, jello salad, deviled eggs, and a variety of desserts. Everyone was stuffed and even had some to take home. I didn't count the folks but I think there was something like 25 here. We had a big egg hunt for the kids while the adults sat around on the front porch and watched. It was warm today but we had a nice breeze. My friend Diane came over and I got to visit with her. Diane is the woman who goes to the rehab with me on Monday's now. She is a very sweet Chritian widow who is 60, but has the figure and the energy (and attitude) of a 25 yr old. She leaves me in the dust and if you invite her over for something she works right along side you, never just expecting to be waited on. She is a good friend and sister in the Lord to have. She got a surprise this week when her hen hatched a couple of little chicks that she wasn't expecting...right in time for Easter.

Anyway, it was a very good day with family and friends...a good, good weekend. Erin has no school tomorrow so I think I will try to sleep in until 8 and take a day off from chores tomorrow.

Hope you all are having a wonderful day.

BooApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83646:
Happy Easter to all!...busy here keeping the lights on all night..prayers to all...eating a good Easter Plate...honey baked ham,sweet taters,cream corn,greenbeans,okra,(all those out of the garden last year)taters with gravy...roll...ok....let me get busy...SPOTApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83647:
Hope everyone had a great Easter.
Your Easter sounded wonderful Boo. But I bet you don't sleep in till no 8 o'clock tomorrow. I bet yer up with the Hazels.... uhh I mean chickens. :)

Gosh I am so buried at work right now I'm at my wits end. It's good to be busy, especially these days, but my sakes alive this is nuts. Here it is Sunday night and I'm making a mental list of all the things I need to do this week and I'm just plain tuckered out thinking about it. I'm not complaining mind you.... well maybe I am a bit. But I reckon I'd rather be loaded down with work than not. Still though, I'm stressed with the amount to do. OK, enough of my wailing and gnashing of teeth. My pity party is now over.

I just hope Spot or Big Maude drops in early in the morning with a nice breakfast to start the week off right.

Asa April 24, 2011 - Msg 83648:
Good evening, porch. Gosh, Boo, your day sounds as much fun as mine was. We hauled a bunch of food up to the hospital, and they let us use a table over in the corner in the cafeteria. Being Sunday, things were quiet and we almost had the place to ourselves. Brittney and her sister brought most of the food, I just took fruit salad and Easter eggs. Had a good meal, Eloise was reasonably comfortable in her wheelchair, and we had a good visit. Then we packed up and let her go back to her room and get some rest. Dave and Brittney and the boys came home with me, and Brittney took pictures in the back yard with the kids and dogs and the flowers, and the boys hunted eggs. Later we came in and watched "Tangled" on the new TV. Wow. That set really performed, and the surround sound didn't hurt it any either. Very good movie, very well done. We really enjoyed it.

The kids left a few minutes ago, headed home trying to beat a storm that's rolling in. Toye Starr and I are just enjoying the peace and quiet. It's amazing how much racket 8 and 10 year old boys can make, just by existing. They don't even have to try, it seems! They're good kids though, very loving little guys.

I think I'm going to go watch the Britcoms now. They don't showcase the TV like a movie does, but I enjoy them. I hope everyone had a great Easter, and we can all look forward to a happy and productive week. Blessings! --RomeenaApril 24, 2011 - Msg 83649:
A belated to my fellow Porchsters! I perused your entries and it looks like a great time was had! Have a great night, all and I will try to get back here tomorrow or Tuesday.

I guess I kinda forgot to tell you all that the wife shut down the in-home daycare on Friday and also has Monday off. So, I took these same four days off and got away from my Quantrill project. I think I needed it. LOL!

Happy Easter everyone! Sleep well!

John MastersApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83650:HI all, very busy but meaningful 4 days starting with holy Thursday, then Good Friday, Holy Saturday and of course today! I love these high holy days! We all went to chuch together with my dad today to the church we grew up in. My dad commented on how the folks are mostly hispanic and african (and i do mean african immigrants from nigeria etc. ) We told him that his generation built it, and after they left or died that it would have been terible for the church to also have died, but instead it is very much alive and thriving! He felt good about that.
Beautiful 84 degress here today!
Prayers! Jesus is ALIVE and well!
MDCApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83651:
Asa My buddy we will have a whale of a b-fast!hey MDC,Possum,Maude,Jm and all!..well its 3:20 am est and all is quite at work...got some pop-corn and a c-grade late night move going...ok...Breakfast menu: 3 eggs your way,bisquits and gravy,country ham,bacon(chewy for Ro)toast,grape jelly,hashbrown with cheese,coffee,h20,Oj,milk and a tear from my roll of paper towels...ready at 8:00 est...Boo will you bring a morning paper...signed:SPOT "yer talking dog of this here porch.April 25, 2011 - Msg 83652:
That'll lay on your chest,Spot! Well,maybe you & Asa can handle that breakfast- just a cup of coffee for me,please!
Happy Monday,y'all!

*******************
possum under a rockApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83653:
Ohhhhh yeeeeaaaa Spot. Now yer cooking! It won't lay on my chest Possum. But then again my chest has sunk a bit to the south so who knows.

84 MDC? Dang buddy. We will be lucky to hit 54 today and then tonight... we are under a winter storm watch yet again. They are calling for a foot or more snow on top and even some accumulations down on the valley floor. This is not what we need. We are going to be in deep waters next month when the temps break.

Sounds like you had a nice 4 day break John. Sometimes you just have to recharge the old batteries huh?

Well better get crackin. Got tons to do.

AsaApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83654:
Thanks for breakfast, SPOT. Hope you had a good Easter and got to spend it with your family. How are Miss Sherry and your parents and children these days?

Asa, I actually managed to sleep until 8:15 this morning. yay! It felt great. Of course I didn't even get to have my coffee until I pulled on my rubber boots and trudged out to the road to close the gate so I could let the dogs out of their kennel. I'm sure i was quite a sight in my ugly around-the-house boxer shorts, t-shirt, and pink rubber boots with little brown horses on them! One car did come by but I didn't up. By the way, you think YOUR chest has sunk a bit south, try being a middle-age woman..we know all about chests going south. ;) Speaking of south, it sure is warm and pleasant here in south texas today. Can't believe you might get that much snow! Wow...crazy.

Hope you are enjoying your time off, JM.

Sounds like you had a good day, Ro. Glad you are enjoying your family and the new TV. I haven't seen Tangled yet but I think Erin went to see it with Amy when it came out. Guess I need to find a copy of it.

BooApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83655:
Asa, I forgot to comment on your earlier post about having such a mountain of things to do and the stress involved with that. You sound like Bruce..he never, ever has a chance of catching up at work. There needs to be about 5 people doing his job, I think, but we also realize, like you do, that we are blessed that he has a good job and he does what he can. I do worry some about the affects of the stress on him, though. I know you have alot to deal with on the job and some tough responsibilities at home, too. The only thing I can say is that we care about you here. Come and talk if you need to and we can pray for you. If you aren't already doing so, remember to find time during your day to have fellowship with the Lord and read His word. It will go a long way in helping you to cast your burdens on the Lord (but you know this already). Prayers for you today.

HANG IN THERE
When you,re bearly
getting by,
and you have a
beastly day.
When life is hard tobear
and it rube you
the wrong way..
Just ture your ekes to heaven
and pause to say a prayer
that God will lift you up
and help you ahang in there.

TOM April 25, 2011 - Msg 83659:
Good morning, porch! Sounds like some of us had some time off, and that's a good thing. All work and no play, etc. God knew what He was doing when He ordained a day of rest. Gosh, even my computer doesn't work well unless I shut it down once in a while.

We had a big thunderstorm here last night, and I've got a limb down in the back yard. It's a dead one, though - should be pretty light, and it's not terribly big. Guess God pruned the tree for me.

I'm sitting here at my window, looking out t what's left of the irises - they're just about finished, though there are still a few buds back there. There's a deep purple and a pale pink side by side, both blooming. I planned that, too. They're both late bloomers (and rebloomers, they'll perform again in the fall) and I love that color combination, so put them close together.

I've been noticing a small shower of leafy twigs falling from an overgrown area. I thought it was a squirrel trying to make a nest, but have finally figured it out. It's a squirrel, but he's not making a nest. He's clearing a road! The power lines run right through that tangled growth. He uses the line to get from A to B when he's in a hurry, but a nearby tree has brown up beneath the line (no heavy limbs) and a wisteria has climbed up there and just made a tangled ball around the wires. Won't hurt the wires, but sure does make a roadblock for Mr. Squirrel. So, he's methodically chewing off bits of the vine and the tree's twigs, and dropping them. The roof of my arbor is covered, as is the flowerbed alongside. Isn't that hilarious? It amazes me that he understands the problem and knows what to do about it. He just gets his little buzzsaw teeth busy, and solves the problem. I just love the pesky little things! Ted is supposed to be making me another nesting box, but I think he's forgotten. Guess I'll have to remind him.

Well, I need to call Eloise and see what I can do for her today. Bless her heart, she's really having trouble staying positive. Looks like she's going to have to go to a nursing facility for a few weeks, as she's really pretty much helpless - just standing to transfer from her wheelchair to her bed is an ordeal. There's no way she could get into her shower at home - it's really going to be hard just to get into the bathroom, let alone the shower. Also, her kitchen is small, not much maneuvering room there either, so just getting a drink of water would be difficult. Also, there will have to be someone with her 24/7, because she couldn't get up if she fell, or get out of the house in an emergency. Bless her heart, I just come to tears whenever I think about it. Decisions must be made this week, and it's not going to be easy. Prayers, please.

Blessings, friends. --RomeenaApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83660:Tom, that poem is perfect. I'm going to copy it and take it to Eloise - it's just what she needs to hear. Thanks, my friend. --RomeenaApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83661:
When, oh when will I learn to proofread? That's "looking out AT what's left" and "a nearby tree has Grown up", etc. Sorry! --RomeenaApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83662:
Poor Eloise, I just hate to hear that she has been struggling like this. I have to to believe that as much as God must love her, He has a purpose even in this. May His grace sustain her, give her strength and fill her with joy and peace. May the Lord also open up the way clearly for her and show her and Mr. Eloise what decisions to make on her behalf so that her recovery won't be hindered in any way. Amen.

BooApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83663:
Praise the Lord! Our prayers have been answered, evidently. I just spoke with Eloise, and she had great news. She saw her doctor this morning, he's very surprised by the progress she has made and how quickly her leg is healing. He allowed her to stand and use a walker, with very light toe-touch on the broken leg. Her broken ribs make it hard for her to support her weight on the walker with her arms, but she can do it, just fights the pain. He watched her "walk", and said she could continue to do that, and therefore can go home at the end of the week. No nursing facility. She'll have some home health care and some rehab at home, but she can actually go to her house. Being able to navigate with the walker means she can go places in her house where the wheelchair wouldn't go, so it changes the picture completely. I am so happy!!! Thanks for all your prayers for her. God is good!

Been in the hospital all last night and day today with my dad. My mom called me last night screaming saying "he's not responding". So rushed over there and found him pretty much out of it. Called 911 and started trying to get him to respond. After rub cool water over his face and neck he started looking at me. Then he started throwing up "tons" of blood with large chunks in it. When the ambulance got there they loaded him up and rushed him off to the hospital. Got him stablized then transported him to another hospital. When he got there he began throwing up a lot of blood again. Over night they gave him 5 pints of blood and a bag of plasma. He's doing a lot better now. They believe he had an aneurism (sp?) but it seems to be clotting over well. Running more test in morning. He's back talking and says he's not hurting now. Still in ICU. Glad I was not on the road.
Wow...Sorry for rambling on. Scolled up and saw how much I had posted.

Love you folks and prayers for each of you!
-REV.April 25, 2011 - Msg 83667:
Good heavens, REV. If that's what you call "rambling on", please don't tell me how you describe my diatribes!

I am so sorry to hear about your dad, but glad things seem to be under control. Does he have liver problems, or is he known to have varicosities in his esophagus? The two often go together, but not always. Sometimes a person can indeed have an aneurysm on a vessel in the stomach or esophagus, and if it ruptures, you get exactly the situati0n you described.

Thank God you weren't on the road! I'm sure your dear wife would have stepped in and provided the support your parents needed, but I can only imagine how distraught you would have been when you got the word - way off in the boonies somewhere. So glad he's stable - please keep us posted. Prayers being offered, certainly.

Blessings! --RomeenaApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83668:
REV... My prayers are with you and your family
MAYBERRY DEPUTY April 25, 2011 - Msg 83669:
Gosh Rev, that is scary. Please know that he, you, and your whole Family are in my prayers my friend. I'm glad folks were there to get him help so fast.

Glad Eloise is doing so well Ro. You just gotta believe her recovery will be that much quicker being in her own home and her own bed.

Boo, thank you for the kind words of encouragement and prayers. You are a very special kind and thoughtful Christian woman. Thank you.

Ro.....Come to think of it, "varicosities" was also mentioned. Can't remember if that was in the dr's report or if the nurse said it.

So glad Eloise is doing much better. Be sure to tell her I said even though she laughed at our "porch" talking (when the three of us were out for lunch), we are still praying for her:)

Well I'm going to get me some sleep.
Love and prayers for ALL my porch family!
-REV.April 25, 2011 - Msg 83671:
You are welcome, Asa...thank you for your kind words. :)

Gosh REV, that is scary stuff going on there. My heart (and prayer) goes out to your dad. Ro, my first thought was esophogeal varices but I don't think he would be doing as well as he is if that were it. Wouldn't that require emergency surgery? I only had exerience with one such patient in the ICU and he required surgery. We did ice lavage and they put in some sort of balloon that they blew up in the esophogus until he could be taken to OR. Lots of blood, for certain.

You hang in there, REV and know we are praying for your dad and your family.

BooApril 25, 2011 - Msg 83672:
REV, I should have added that the fact that your dad has stabilized is very good. Sounds like they are taking good care of him.

BooApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83673:
Touching base to say Prayers to REV and family! I hope he recovers as fast as this hit him! Peace be with you all!

John Masters!April 26, 2011 - Msg 83674:
Prayers for your dad, Rev. How frightening that must have been for you & your mom. Please keep us posted. Hope he gets to feeling much better soon.
Great news about Eloise,Ro!
Breakfast at the Diner- Rev,we'll send you a plate over.
*******************
possum under a rockApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83675:
Good Morning porch, Prayers for Rev and his family.

Bad storms on my end of the porch last night, lots of hail, lighting and thunder, and buckets of rain. The house across the street from us was struck by lightinng. No one was injured, thank goodness.There were no flames or smoke that we could see but the fire trucks were there for quite a while. Apparently more storms are coming our way this afternoon.

Beth has her junior prom this week end. Another milestone for her as is her 17th birthday on May 16th. Wow, where does the time go.

Glad Eloise is holding up okay. will continue to rememeber her as well.

gotta get to work. Prayers and blessings all around.
Big MaudeApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83676:
Good Morning, All! It's nice to be back on the porch in my favorite rocker!

Ro - Good to hear that Eloise is mending well and speedy! My continued prayers and well wishes for her recovery!

REV - Thinking about your plight and hoping all will be well and work out!

Well, the four days off was nice. Got some fishing in and only caught a couple. Wife caught one, I caught one. Biggest of the two was eight and a half inches long. Bass, I believe. Just throwing the pole in the water and watching the current roll by was worth the whole time though! I thought about calling up Howard Sprague and telling him to bring ome potato salad! LOL! Started out the "vacation" by going to Bass Pro and stocking up on fishing gear. I absolutely love that place! So "country-fied" and gives you that Ozark type of feel right in the hub-bub of Kansas City-Independence.

Well, think I'll get back to the history and will check in as usual. Hope you all have a wonderful day!

JMApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83678:Prayers for Rev's dad this day!
MDCApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83679:
Prayers indeed for Papa Rev. Boo, in my years on the med-surg floors, we saw a lot of bleeding esophageal varices. In my experience, they don't always require surgery. Basically depends on the size and the location, I think. If they're very large, or if there are many others alongside, then surgery is usually the remedy. If not, ice lavage and a pressure balloon can often solve the problem. In Papa Rev's case, my guess is the bleeder was fairly small, and had been bleeding for some time, with most of the blood making its way to his stomach. Hence the clots, and the large volume when his stomach finally rebelled. A large rupture produces immediate vomiting, lots of blood and very few clots. With good management, a small rupture can be managed successfully. Remember too - things have changed a lot, with the advent of the various scopes. Much can be done now through a scope, that used to require a huge incision.

I've been at this window all morning, just fascinated by the critter activity. For quite a while there was almost NO activity, and that was significant. The hawk was in residence, and everybody was laying low. A squirrel hunkered flat on a limb, unmoving, tail tucked close to his body so the wind wouldn't blow the fluffy fur and attract the hawk's notice. Three tiny wrens took refuge in a shrub just below my window, and stayed there for quite a while, not moving. Not a leaf shook! Finally the hawk moved on, and the yard came to life. There's a starling's nest in one of the boxes on a tree, and one little fledgling is about to fly away. He manages to get on top of the box, and sits up there rotating (not flapping, but literally rotating) his wings, and with wide open beak he's squalling for his parents to come and feed him! I've never seen a bird do that with its wings before. They spin round and round, no vertical flapping that would give him lift. He'll never fly that way. I don't know if his wings are hinged wrong, or if he's just dumb. I guess he'll figure it out - I hope so, because what he's doing will never serve for flight. I wonder if he's just exercising them, gaining strength for actual flight?

Right now, a squirrel and a bluejay are having a showdown over some sunflower seeds. Too funny! The squirrel is all fluffed up and barking, tail swishing back and forth. The bluejay is crouching, head down, wings outstretched, tail spread, and he's buzzing at the squirrel. Now they've gone to neutral corners, and some little sparrows are investigating the seeds! So funny! Reminds me of a confrontation I witnessed years ago between some dogs. One female was apparently wearing an enticing perfume, because about six males were following her around, but she rebuffed each of them in turn. They kept trying, and finally turned on each other and got in a big old snarling fight. The female stood off to the side and watched, and soon a little terrier-type came trotting along. Attracted by the commotion, he approached the scene, spotted the female and went to her side. I don't know what he whispered in her ear, but apparently he said the right things, because they trotted off side by side, nuzzling each other's faces, until they disappeared around the bend in the road. Meanwhile, the pack continued to fight and snarl and raise a ruckus in my front yard, until one of them looked up and realized that the object of their affections was nowhere to be seen. One by one, they all cooled their aggression, looked very sheepish, and slunk away. Dale and I were just sitting on the front steps, watching it all and laughing like loons.

Well, guess I'd better snag a little lunch, then see if I can get a nap, so I can go to work tonight. Blessings! --RomeenaApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83680:
WOW...Beth is already going to be 17?! Time really does fly. Pretty soon you will have an empty nest, Maude...sniff. Sometimes I feel kind of bad for my kids because they were either homeschooled or gone to Christian schools and they don't have proms...or football games or dances. I hope they don't resent me for it later but Sean couldn't seem to care less. All he cares about is getting his driver's license and a car! ;) We will be working on the driving lessons this summer.

Glad you had a nice little vacation, JM.

Better get back to the chores...

BooApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83681:
Hey there Ro, that makes sense (about the esophogeal varices). The one patient I had must have had a biggie! Sounds like REV's dad had what you describe..more of a slow bleeder, thank God. Wonder how he is doing today? Hope REV checks in soon.

Interesting back yard happenings you got there. How fun it must be to watch. Because of my two big lug-head dogs, nothing comes around to be watched.

Ro - That dog story was CLASSIC! I probably would have been laying on the porch, holding my sides! That's a story that's hard to beat!

Boo - Thanks for the sentiment. Hey, I wouldnt feel any regret or remorse for homeschooling or having your kids in your grasp school-wise. In THIS day and age....Yikes! You just never know when another Columbine is lying in wait. I know that's a terrible thought. But...unfortunately, it's reality. The wife and I have not batted an eye about homeschooling. That decision was made long ago and I think it's the best method. But that's just my opinion.

REV - We're sitting here anxious! Take your time, but your support here is loud!

I have been working on the blog/website for my Quantrill project and have been getting support from someone who saw the ad on the arkansastoothpick site. There is a man sending parole papers for two Quantrill men and he is feverishly digging thru more computer cds and pictures to see what else he can donate! I kinda hit a bad lull in donations, but it seems that it is slowly picking up again!

Time to go now as I have dinner to eat and mowing the yard still in front of me. A great night to all and if I dont see ya later, I'll see ya tomorrow! SONIC Route 44s on me tonight!

John MastersApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83683:
Well, thanks JM. I started thinking about it after I posted that comment and realized that my children have plenty of social activities and lots of family. Our church youth group has alot of activities and camps for the youth. This weekend they are having something called "Disciple Now" weekend and I will have 5 or 6 giggling teen girls in our home Friday through Sunday. They will be out doing things most of the time, though. They have and adult leader who watches out after them so I don't have to do anything but provide breakfast on Saturday morning.

BooApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83684:Hello porch family....you folks are so special. Thank you all so much for your continued prayers.
My dad is doing so much better. They moved him out of ICU today and took all the tubes from him. Did the scope down the throat again today and they said the rupture is still clotting and looking great. No more blood is "leaking" out. Said he may get to come home in a couple of days.

Thanks again everyone...that's why I call you folks my porch family!
Love and prayers
-REV.April 26, 2011 - Msg 83685:
Great News, REV! I deeclare that's about as speedy of a recovery as you can get, huh? LOL! Well, continued blessings for you and your family!

Boo - Hey, even though your kids dont actually GO to a public school, I reckon there's nothin' wrong with them goin' to high school games with friends and other activities as such. I mean just because you dont actually go to a school doesnt mean you cant visit and attend certain events. Sometimes, I hear the ol' home schooling scenario from other people and it's like there is a cloud of "if they dont actually go to a public school, then public schools dont exist." Am I explaining that right? There is always going to events and games with family and friends to lend support to friends playing sports.
Well, we'll see if TVLand is teeing up another TAGS marathon on Saturday and you can lose yourself there. LOL!

Just finished watching "Bill Parcells Draft Confidential" on ESPN. It really got down to the depths of what goes into the NFL Draft and Yikes!...I didnt know it was THAT deep! Pretty educational for those who love the NFL and how it works draft-wise.

Ok, time to hit the hay! Have a great night, all! Good Nights to MDC, Maude, Ro, Possum, Mayberry Deputy, Asa, KyGirl, and the whole gang!

John MastersApril 26, 2011 - Msg 83686:
Hi All. Sorry I havent contributed much lately. Coming off a busy weekend helping at church, and busy at work right now too. I feel like Mr Tucker.
Rev- glad your pop is doing better. Prayer works.
APB for HAZEL, POOR HORATIO, AUH20, and others.
Anyone want to think of some "Barneyisms" like kleptomenerac, compelsion, etc...
Have a good evening,
MDCApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83687:
Morning Porchters.

Rev, wonderful news about your Dad. Thank you Lord for blessings everyday. I hope he is able to get back to his own home quick.

Dang JM. I was hoping to see that show with Parcells. I imagine they will rerun it. I think Parcells is an absolute genius when it comes to building football teams. He has time and time again taken very bad teams and transformed them into very good teams, usually fairly fast.

MDC, Hope things settle down some so you can become more regular. Not to imply you are irregular. Uhhh... you know what I mean. :)

Speaking of busy, that's the story of my life right now. Better snao to it!

My end of the porch is under a storm watch for this afternoon and later today. Apparently they are having storms in Nasville and the doppler indicates it is moving my way. Guess I had better take cover. It is a good thing I am NOT a giraffe.

Rev: where will you be performing in Pigeon Forge. I am trying to work out plans to come down if possible.

Let's see....grab me a plate here and load up on some of this good eatin'! Mighty fine table you laid here, Maude! Mighty fine!

Asa - I dont know if they'll run it again or not. They might squeeze it in once more. I havent looked at a tv schedule so I dont know. But you might try to find it.

REV - Continued support and prayers for your father!

Ok, folks....time to get to it! Have a great and stress free day and I 'll be back later on!

John MastersApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83690:
Well, shoot....not going to make it to lunch or even back til tomorrow. Didnt get to mow last night, so I have to do it today and then go to the FIL's house and do his, plus laundry and other chores. Barely even got to my history work today. Oh well...that's the way she goes sometimes!

How was everyone's Easter? Ours was nice and relaxing. Today my husband mentioned how nice it would be to have family here, but we both chose to move away...

Bryson and I have work to do so y'all take care! Be safe!

Blessings,
LucyApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83693:Hello porch family.....can only stay a second but wanted to let you folks know that yes prayers works. Can you believe my dad is on his way home now? Very weak but doing great. Doctors are amazed at the recovery.

Maude.... I will get back with you tonight or tomorrow about the Pigeon Forge date. That would be great to meet you.

BooApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83696:
Wow REV! Must've had a rabbit's foot and rubbed the head of a red headed man! Boo has a great prescription for getting him well.

Make sure he takes two Andy's and plenty of rest! LOL!

Hey to Lucy! Good to see you again!

John MastersApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83697:
I had a request for a porch sweep this morning but I've not seen what, if anything, is dirty on the porch? If the porch needs a sweeping, please let me know with a Msg number(s) so I'll see the problem. Thanks folks and have a Mayberry day!
-FloydApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83698:
Floyd, I haven't seen anything here that needs sweeping. Been pretty nice and low key here on the porch.

Great news about your Dad Rev. I pray he will continue to heal quick.

AsaApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83699:
Great news, Asa. I figured it was because the page is getting long and the user was on a phone looking at the porch.
--FloydApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83700:Floyd, thanks for checking up on us.
Rev- Praise the Lord!!
Lucy, indeed, prayers now for all in those storm paths, and flooding too. I heard from Pappabear, and he is getting hit.
God bless,
MDCApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83701:
Gang storms on top of us here in ga...26 dead in Alabama...3 so far in Ga...mess here at work...prayers to all...SPOTApril 27, 2011 - Msg 83702:
Floyd said on facebook that the tornados are within 30 miles of where he lives... 36 dead so far. Prayers for Floyd!
- HazelApril 28, 2011 - Msg 83703:
OMGosh! Prayers for all in the midst of the storms. I heard from Mavis and they are really getting hit there with terrible storms. Lord be with our porch friends and their families. What on earth?!

BooApril 28, 2011 - Msg 83704:
Hope everyone checks in this morning. I am concerned about the porch folks in the path of the storms. I heard from Mavis on facebook this morning so she is ok. So scary...I think if I lived in those areas I would camp out in the basement (if I had one). We very seldom have tornados here on the coast and no basements since we are at sea level. I guess we would just be sitting ducks if we did have them. You can't did down more than 3 feet here without getting wet.

It is a very nice day here in south texas...cool this morning and low humidity. Wish I could share it with the rest of the country.

Over on facebook we are playing a fun game. In honor of the royal wedding, we are sharing our "wedding names". You find out your wedding name by: First, start out with Lord or Lady, then for your first name, choose the first name of one of your grandparents. For a surname, choose the name of one of your childhood pets, then you choose the name of a street you lived on as a child. For instance, my wedding name is: "Lady Edna Whiskers of Whitaker". Give it a try, it's pretty funny to see what people come up with!